Brunch for the discerning: the best places in Krakow that cultivate this Western tradition
June 11, 2025
Cracow is not only a city full of monuments and history, but also a true mecca for lovers of refined cuisine. In recent years, the capital of Malopolska has experienced a real culinary boom, offering both traditional Polish flavors and modern interpretations of dishes from around the world. In particular, brunch, a late breakfast combining elements of lunch, has become a real ritual for locals and tourists. In this article, I will take you on a journey through five exceptional restaurants where brunch turns into a true feast for the palate and all the senses. Each of these places has its own unique history, character and menu that will satisfy even the most demanding gourmets.
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French elegance and Vistula views
We begin our culinary journey with ZaKładka Bistro de Cracovie, a gem hidden in Krakow's Podgórze district, right by the Bernatek Bridge. This restaurant is a true blend of French elegance and Polish hospitality. Situated in a historic building from the early 20th century, it offers not only delicious food, but also breathtaking views of the Vistula River and the Old Town skyline.
ZaKładka is especially famous for its French-inspired brunches, which are served on weekends starting in the early morning hours. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always count on classic croissants baked on site, eggs cooked in a variety of ways and delicious tarts. Especially recommendable is their flagship dish - eggs benedict with hollandaise sauce and smoked salmon, which many guests consider the best in town. Prices at ZaKładka can be described as average, which, combined with the quality of the dishes served and the unique location, makes for a really good deal.
It is interesting to note that ZaKładka's chef trained in France under the tutelage of Michelin-starred chefs, which is clearly evident in the precision of the preparation of each dish. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, many of which come from small, family-owned French vineyards. In the summer you can enjoy your meal on the charming terrace overlooking the river, which adds an extra charm to the whole experience.
The next stop on our tour is Scandale Royal Restaurant & Bar, a place whose very name suggests a unique experience. Located on Szczepanski Square, in the heart of the Old Town, Scandale Royal impresses with an interior that combines classic elegance with modern touches. High ceilings, crystal chandeliers and plush armchairs create an atmosphere of luxury and sophistication.
Brunch at Scandale Royal is a true feast for the senses. The menu is inspired by international cuisine with a distinct Mediterranean influence. Guests can choose from a wide variety of appetizers, salads, main courses and desserts. Of particular note are their shakshuka - eggs baked in a flavorful tomato sauce with feta and fresh herbs, and French toast with caramelized bananas and mascarpone cream. Prices at Scandale Royal are higher than average, but the quality of the products and the unique atmosphere fully compensate for this.
The history of the place is as fascinating as its menu. The building that houses the restaurant remembers the days of medieval Krakow, and during the renovation fragments of the original frescoes were discovered, which have been painstakingly restored and are now part of the decor. Scandale Royal also regularly organizes wine tastings led by experienced sommeliers, a perfect complement to brunch for true connoisseurs.
Oases of luxury and taste in the heart of the city
The third stop on our culinary map of Krakow is the Cafe Oranżeria Restaurant, a true oasis of calm and luxury hidden in the historic Kossak Hotel. This place delights not only with its delicious cuisine, but above all with its panoramic view of Wawel and the Vistula River, which can be admired thanks to the restaurant's glass walls.
Brunch at Orangery is a true celebration of taste and elegance. The menu combines traditional Polish ingredients with modern culinary techniques to create dishes that delight in both appearance and taste. Particularly recommended are their eggs Florentine style served on brioche of their own baking, and a board of regional cheeses with preserves made from seasonal fruits. For lovers of sweets, their French crêpes with crème patissiere and fresh fruit will be a real revelation. Prices at Orangerie are among the higher ones, but the quality of service, exceptional location and carefully prepared dishes fully justify the price.
The historic context adds further charm to the place. The Kossak Hotel, which houses the restaurant, was named after the famous family of Krakow painters. The Orangery itself is reminiscent of 19th-century greenhouses where the aristocracy grew exotic plants and fruits. This historical inspiration is evident in the decor full of greenery and natural light.
The fourth stop is Pimiento Argentino Grill Restaurant Krakow Kazimierz, a place that takes us on a culinary journey to South America. Located in the heart of Krakow's Kazimierz district, a neighborhood rich in Jewish history, the restaurant combines Argentinian culinary traditions with the atmosphere of old Krakow.
Pimiento is primarily known for its excellent steaks, but their brunch offerings also deserve special attention. On weekends, guests can enjoy such specialties as Argentine-style eggs with chimichurri, empanadas with various fillings or sweet churros with dulce de leche sauce. All this can be sipped with traditional yerba mate or Argentine wine. Prices at Pimiento are average to high, but the portions are very generous, giving a good impression of value for money.
The history of the Kazimierz district, where the restaurant is located, is fascinating and full of contrasts. Once an independent city, Kazimierz became a refuge for Jewish refugees fleeing persecution in the 15th century. It evolved into the Jewish quarter of Krakow, but was devastated by the Nazis during World War II. The district remained neglected until the 1990s, when the film 'Schindler's List' sparked a cultural revival of the area. Today, Kazimierz is a vibrant district full of cafes, restaurants and galleries, and Pimiento fits perfectly into this eclectic character.
The restaurant's interior combines elements of an Argentine ranch house with details evocative of the neighborhood's Jewish history. Bricks on the walls, wooden beams and leather seating create a cozy, rustic atmosphere, perfect for both a romantic dinner and an informal brunch with friends. In summer, the restaurant opens a charming garden, where you can enjoy your meal in the shade of trees, watching the bustling streets of Kazimierz.
Culinary discoveries in the New Square
The last, but certainly not the least important stop on our brunch map of Krakow is Bazaar Bistro, a place that perfectly reflects the multicultural character of Krakow's Kazimierz. Located on Plac Nowy, in the heart of the former Jewish quarter, Bazaar Bistro combines elements of Polish, Jewish and Middle Eastern cuisine to create a unique menu that is hard to find elsewhere.
Brunch at Bazaar Bistro is a true journey through the flavors and aromas of different cultures. The menu includes traditional Jewish challah with avocado paste and poached eggs, as well as Middle Eastern shakshuka or Polish potato pancakes in a modern twist. Particularly recommended are their bagels baked according to a traditional recipe, served with a variety of toppings - from smoked salmon to hummus with roasted peppers. Prices at Bazaar Bistro are moderate, which, combined with the quality and originality of the dishes, makes this place very attractive.
New Square, where the restaurant is located, has a fascinating history. It used to be the main market square in Jewish Kazimierz, where everything from food to clothing was traded. The centerpiece of the square is a circular building called 'Okrąglak', which once served as a ritual poultry slaughterhouse. Today the place is famous for its casseroles, but Bazaar Bistro offers a much more refined culinary alternative.
The interior of Bazaar Bistro is a true feast for the eyes. The eclectic decor combines vintage furniture with modern touches, and the walls are decorated with works by local artists. In summer, the restaurant opens a garden on the square, where you can observe the vibrant heart of Kazimierz while enjoying delicious food.
To sum up our culinary journey through Krakow's brunches, it is worth noting the variety and richness of the offerings presented by each of the described places. From the French elegance of ZaKładka Bistro de Cracovie, to the luxurious ambience of Scandale Royal and the panoramic views of Orangerie, to the Argentine flavors of Pimiento and the multicultural character of Bazaar Bistro, each restaurant offers a unique culinary experience that will satisfy even the most demanding gourmets.
Krakow, a city with more than a thousand years of history, has for centuries been a meeting place of different cultures and traditions. This multiculturalism is reflected in the city's rich culinary offerings. Legend has it that as early as the 14th century, when innkeeper Mikołaj Wierzynek gave a famous feast for King Casimir the Great and Roman Emperor Charles IV, Krakow was famous for its hospitality and excellent cuisine. At the time, food was served on gold and silver plates, and the tradition of sumptuous feasts has survived to this day in the form of exquisite brunches served in Krakow's best restaurants.
It is also worth mentioning that Krakow is a city where tradition mixes with modernity, and culinary trends from the world quickly find their way here. Brunch, which is a relatively new phenomenon in Polish food culture, has fit perfectly into the Krakow lifestyle, combining elements of traditional cuisine with modern techniques and international influences.
Whether you're a lover of classic French cuisine, an admirer of Argentine steaks, or a seeker of new multicultural flavors, Krakow's brunch scene is sure to offer something that will appeal to your tastes. Each of the described restaurants is not just a place where you can eat well, but a true culinary journey that leaves you with unforgettable memories and makes you want to return to Krakow not only for the sights, but also for the unique culinary experience.
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